In the heart of Ladera Ranch, a community that was once filled with nothing but laughter and joy, we are now facing an alarming health crisis that affects our most vulnerable citizens – our children. The diagnosis of Ewing Sarcoma, a rare but aggressive cancer, in multiple children in our community has led to sleepless nights and families wracked with fear. Moreover, there are increasing reports of cases linked to Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma.

We believe there is a potential connection to glyphosate, a widely used herbicide in agriculture known to pose health risks. Studies published by reputable sources, such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), have linked glyphosate to cancer in humans. With approximately 280 million pounds of glyphosate being used annually in the U.S., its presence is prevalent in the food we consume daily.   

Concerns about glyphosate extend beyond cancer. Researchers have also investigated whether glyphosate and glyphosate-based herbicides can interfere with the endocrine system—the network of hormones that regulates reproduction, development, metabolism, and other essential functions.

Some laboratory and animal studies have reported changes involving estrogen, androgen, thyroid, and reproductive pathways following exposure to glyphosate or glyphosate-based formulations. Reviews of this research have raised concerns about possible effects on sex-hormone signaling, reproductive development, fertility, and other endocrine-related outcomes. Importantly, some research suggests that the effects observed with complete glyphosate-based formulations may differ from those observed with glyphosate alone.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is currently reviewing the risks associated with glyphosate. We urge the EPA to expedite their review process and implement immediate measures to restrict or prohibit its use on food crops where clear evidence establishes an unacceptable risk to human health. It is vital to protect our children’s future and ensure they grow up in a safe and healthy environment. We also ask for transparent evaluation of dietary exposure, cancer evidence, reproductive/developmental effects, genotoxicity, formulations, and alternatives.

Communities like ours around the country depend on swift and responsible action from regulatory bodies. We cannot afford to wait while more of our children potentially suffer from preventable illnesses. Therefore, we are calling on those in positions of power at the EPA to prioritize public health.

Please sign this petition to push for necessary change and safeguard our children and community from dangerous exposures. Together, we can make a difference.